Sometimes things that really matter are simply left behind by the news of the day or many other reasons. Another anniversary of the day our lives changed forever is upon us. We may remember this 21st anniversary with the clarity of a memory only created by being a witness to loss and trauma. Some of us are too young to have any recollection of the event beyond those experienced in school, television, or the movies. Take time to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the first responders who were lost in their efforts to save those Americans who went to work that day, just like any other day. We all have encountered heroes in our own community, yesterday, today, and tomorrow, in our journey through life. Those we lost on 9/11 were not the first nor the last, but they were among the best of the best.

Take a moment and view part of the universe of media related to the 9/11 attack and reflect on what the expressions on faces of the first responders convey to those they served and left behind. Courage, commitment, teamwork, and sacrifice. They deserve a special place in our collective memories.

Perhaps today is a good day to thank a first responder you may have contact with, especially in the face of challenges facing the fire services, emergency medical and law enforcement community.